Children mature and reach their full potential by having 4 irreducible needs met. These represent the nourishing soil for their healthy development and growth. The caretaker is the gardener, responsible for meeting these needs and creating the conditions conducive for growth. First, a child must have a consistent adult in their life who absolutely adores them. The relationship needs to be strong and that caregiver must do the work of attachment for that child in order to provide safety and security. Second is rest. And not just physical rest, but emotional rest. A child must be able to rest knowing their needs are met and they are unconditionally loved. If a child is working at feeling loved and cared for by their adult, they cannot be at rest. A child at work looks like striving to belong, fit in, measure up, be pretty, smart, good, or no trouble. Children need to know they are loved and feel they are loved in their highest highs and lowest lows without shame. Third, a child’s needs to experience and feel their emotions. This includes allowing them to shed tears of futility, expressing sadness, and anger over circumstances they cannot change. It is natural for children to encounter such situations, as it is a crucial part of their emotional development. A healthy child is not one who is always cheerful and shielded from obstacles. Rather, a child’s resilience and adaptability grow when they face adversity, allowing themselves to feel sadness and tears as they learn to navigate life’s challenges. Lastly, a child who can find rest, safety, and express their emotions in a warm loving relationship will be able to truly play. A child at play is not at work. True play is where learning happens. It is where children develop the skills and tools to be able to continue to learn throughout life. Follow along to learn more about how you can cultivate these things in your home and life. #kinderfolk #kinderfolkclub #preschoolactivities #curriculum #unschooling #naturallearning #parenting #gabormate #holdontoyourkids #preschool #earlychildhoodeducation #earlychildhood #childdevelopment #waldorf #reggioemilia #montessori #learningthroughplay #earthday #watercycle